Hidden Gems

Norikura-Kogen-Ichinose-Danchi-Maime-no-Ike-Pond-Matsumoto-Nagano-Japan

Discover Norikura Kōgen Ichinose Meadow: Hiking & Nature

The Ichinose Meadow (乗鞍高原一の瀬園地) in Norikura Kogen is an unspoiled gem in the Japanese Alps. Located in Nagano and surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, it is one of the best spots for easy, accessible hiking and cycling and connecting with nature. From seasonal wildflowers to peaceful ponds reflecting the peaks, this meadow is the perfect […]

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Amanohashidate: One of the Top Three Scenic Places in Japan

Amanohashidate (天橋立), one of the Three Views of Japan (日本三景, Nihon Sankei), is a celebrated scenic site in Japan that many Japanese have on their bucket list to visit. It is the small Japanese towns to visit in Kyoto for stunning views throughout the year. There are cherry blossoms in spring and maple leaves in

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The Ultimate Guide to How to Enjoy Aka Island

While increasing in popularity as a day trip destination from Naha, Aka Island (阿嘉島) remains a relatively less-visited inhabited island amongst the Kerama Islands group. And the good thing is that Aka Island is connected to Geruma Island (慶留間島) and Fukaji Island (外地島) by bridges, so that you can explore three islands with a single

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Zamami-Island-Okinawa

A Guide to Zamami Island and the Michelin-Starred Beach

Aside from Tokashiki Island (渡嘉敷島), Zamami Island (座間味島) is also considered one of the best snorkeling spots in Okinawa. Why? Because one of the beaches on Zamami Island was given a two-star rating by the Michelin Green Guide Japan! In addition to the Kerama-Blue colored beaches where sea turtles linger, Zamami Island is another spot

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The Best Guide to Roadside Station Funayanosato Ine

Besides seeing Ine‘s unique Funayas by taking the Ine Bay Sightseeing Ferry, there is another way to adore the town’s rural scenery. The view from the Roadside Station Funayanosato Ine (道の駅 舟屋の里伊根) is the most spectacular in the area, and it doesn’t cost you anything to enjoy it!

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Konan Sanzan – The Three Most Scenic Temples South of Lake Biwa

At the south of Japan’s largest lake, Lake Biwa, three temples were erected in the early 8th century. Each has a worship hall designated as a National Treasure in its precinct. Together, the three Tendai sect temples have been known as the ‘Konan Sanzan (湖南三山)’ since 2005. But nowadays, instead of the national treasures, what

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Yamabiko Promenade: Unazuki’s Adventurous Trekking Trail

For those who are eager to explore the stunning Kurobe Gorge on foot, follow the sign at Kurobe Gorge Railway‘s Unazuki Station and walk the Yamabiko Promenade (やまびこ遊歩道). The 1.1km promenade goes past the Kyū-Yamabiko Bridge to Unazuki Dam Observatory, which allows you to walk along railway bridges, tunnels, and old railway tracks. You might

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VEGAN café neu: A Hidden Spot in Osaka for Cat Lovers

If you love animals, especially cats, the shelter cat & VEGAN café “neu” (保護猫とVeganカフェneu) is the spot for you when you are in the Namba/Shinsaibashi Area. It is a spot where you can enjoy vegan food and meet rescued cats waiting to be adopted. Each of them is cute and has a unique personality. The

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Kangetsudai Daikakuji Kyoto Japan

Daikaku-ji: A Temple With a Splendid Precinct All Year Round

Kyoto has many temples and shrines, and the famous ones are usually flooded with tourists! To enjoy your time in Kyoto’s city center, cherry-picking the temples to visit is essential. Daikaku-ji (大覚寺) is a temple that we recommend stopping by, especially during the plum and cherry blossom season. The precinct is also stunning during the

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Lake Gosho Park: A Scenic Hidden Spot for a Family Day Trip

Gosho Lake (御所湖), south of Morioka Handi-Works Square, is a top spot in Morioka to adore Mt. Iwate’s magnificence. It is a huge dam lake created by damming the Shizukuishi River (雫石川). When the weather conditions are right, Mt. Iwate is reflected on the surface of the vast lake, creating a breathtaking view.

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